Brilliant Bale an example to everyone’
GARETH BALE should be an inspiration to every footballer in Britain, says the manager blessed to have the brilliant Galactico in his national team.
Wales boss Chris Coleman (below) admits he is fortunate to have the Real Madrid superstar in his ranks as he starts out on the road towards the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
“We are very lucky to have a player of Gareth’s ilk,” said Coleman, who aims to rekindle the Bale-inspired Welsh adventure of the Euros when they host Moldova tomorrow.
“He is a top, top player and we’ree’re so, so fortunate.
“For us to have a Welsh boy, a Cardiff boy, playing for Real Madrid is fantastic – particularly as he is now one of their most important players.”
Bale became a Champions League winner in May for the second time, scored three goals as Wales roared to the semifinals of Euro 2016, was runner-up to Cristiano Ronaldo as European Footballer of the Year, and then started this season’s La Liga campaign with two goals in Madrid’s opening victory over Sociedad.
In between, he helped sell Wales to the world with almost daily solo press conferences in France, got under Roy Hodgson’s skin by damning England with the faintest of praise, and got engaged to long-term girlfriend Emma RhysJones on a private island.
No wonder Coleman feels Bale should be the blueprint for aspiring young climbers at every rung in the game.
“Other players could look at Gareth and learn so much,” added Coleman.
“Young players probably look at Gareth and they only see the finished article on television. “B “But he didn’t jus just suddenly a arrive at that level.
“It has taken him a l long time to ge get to the very top and the reason h he has been able to stay there is because of his application.
“He gives so much to his career and works incredibly hard.
Sacrifices
“He has also made a lot of sacrifices. Gareth is the best example of all that I could give to anyone. He should be an inspiration to every footballer in Britain.
“He trains hard, he looks after himself off the pitch, he is healthy, and he is always trying to do things better. Not only is he a winner, he always wants to get better.”
On his 62nd cap, Bale will look to add to his 22 international goals, most likely partnered by Burnley’s Sam Vokes.